Why are there riots happening in the UK?

By: TMO Staff

Unrest continues in Britain as three younger girls in northern England were fatally stabbed on July 29, 2024. The tragedy happened at a dance and yoga event, and nearly eight others were injured. However, police arrested a 17-year-old with false rumors he was a Muslim. But, the result included hate crimes, and Islamophobia in the United Kingdom.

It began near a local masjid where people threw items at the building. Meanwhile, several police officers were transported to the local hospital. Then, widespread riots erupted across the region, and violent protests erupted in London. Several masjids have been targeted. However, social media is airing the violence where far-right groups are continuing to spread hatred, and false information about the identity of the alleged attacker.

The riots have also erupted in Belfast, Ireland and crowds continue to loot regions. The protesters have a message of anti-immigration and anti-racism. Police are continuing to investigate hate crimes.

The violence has caused speculation, and concern from Malaysia, Nigeria, India, and Australia who have issued travel advisories. Nearly 600 people were arrested on August 9th with nearly 150 charged. Police have said they are working to tackle misinformation and get it removed online. It’s been slated that police will create more spots in their jails to ensure anyone participating in the violence will be jailed.

Meanwhile, prosecutors in the United Kingdom are even debating terrorism offenses for some suspects, and also cracking down on social media influencers who are adding to the violent protests in the country.

The country is also dealing with peaceful protests taking to the streets to diminish the idea of racism, and Islamophobia. Most of the anti-racism rallies have vallies have been taking place in Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Sheffield, Accrington, Birmingham, and even Bristol.

Local communities have responded by cleaning up and bringing forth the idea of unity and respect. In the Southport region, residents are continuing to be in a state of shock after the violence and the slaughter of the younger girls that led to the unrest.

Judges have placed the longest jail sentences in the rioting that erupted in parts of northern England and Northern Ireland. David Wilkinson, who is 48 years old, and 25-year-old John Honey were part of a mob that allegedly attacked a car that contained three Romanian men on August 3rd. Honey allegedly looted shops and has been sentenced to four years, and eight months behind bars.

Meanwhile, 41-year-old Roger Haywood was also jailed who helped instigate the rioting. He pleaded guilty to two offenses of assaulting emergency workers and was jailed for nearly two and a half years.

Faith leaders across Britain have called on everyone to remain calm and continue acts of peace. The leaders are spreading the message that what divides them can unite them against hatred, violence, and negativity.

The situation in the region continues to unravel.